Kentucky Derby Recipes Your Party-goers Will Love

Big floppy hats, sundresses, seersucker suits, pastel blazers? It must be time for the Kentucky Derby! Locals, visitors, celebrities, and even presidents all gather to bet on thoroughbred horses that race around a 1.25-mile track. They've been betting on these races since 1875. But it's not just about the wagering and racing. The food and drink make it a real party!

Over 120,000 Mint Juleps and almost 1,900 sheets of Kentucky Derby Pies are made every year. These Derby classics are delicious, but the down side is that they’re usually higher in calories and fat, so try these lightened up versions instead.

Kentucky Bourbon Chocolate Walnut Pie

Traditionally served at the annual Kentucky Derby Horse race. This pie recipe is a lightened-up version similar to the Melrose Inn’s famous version, which has been served at the race for over 50 years. Here we used prune puree to replace the butter and cut down on the amount of sugar needed. We also swapped out chocolate chips for cocoa powder for rich, chocolatey flavor without added sugar or fat. Also in the mix: swapping a traditional pie crust for a graham cracker crust to slash fat and calories without cutting down on any flavor!

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 cup flour

3/4 cup sugar

2 eggs, beaten

1/2 cup prune puree

2 tablespoons Kentucky bourbon

1 cup chopped walnuts

1/4 cup cocoa powder

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

pinch of salt

1 ready-made graham cracker piecrust

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Combine flour, cocoa powder, and sugar in a mixing bowl. Add the eggs and prune puree; mix to combine. Stir in the bourbon, walnuts, vanilla, and salt. Pour the mixture into the piecrust. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Let cool before slicing.
Note: To make your own prune puree, mix 3 parts prunes with 1 part boiling water and puree in a blender or food processor to combine.

Mint-Julep-Inspired Smoothie

Using plenty of fresh mint in this smoothie not only celebrates the flavors of the classic cocktail, but it also provides Vitamins A and C. Lime juice adds a refreshing burst of citrus flavor, and the pumpkin pie spice brings depth of flavor like bourbon adds to the julep sans the booze.